Play-Free Contour Connection for Direct Printing Stand Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for changing and positioning stand plates in direct printing machines are inefficient, requiring significant time and manual effort, and often result in imprecise alignment of the print head and container due to the use of quick-change systems with play in the connection.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring a stationary plate and support with matching contours for a play-free connection, allowing for quick and precise positioning by engaging only in one relative arrangement, and optionally incorporating connecting elements like magnets or screws for secure attachment without tools, ensuring accurate alignment and easy exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If quick-change systems with click connections are used, then the stand plate can be exchanged quickly, but precise positioning is difficult and the relative position of the print head and container cannot be precisely adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into two distinct functional components: a quick-release mechanism for rapid attachment/detachment and a form-fit contour system for precise positioning. The stand plate and support are divided such that the connection element handles the quick-change function while the contours handle the precision alignment function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges two previously separate functions into a single integrated connection system: the quick-change capability and the precise positioning capability are combined in the contour-based connection interface between the stand plate and support, eliminating the need for separate adjustment mechanisms.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional connection systems requiring tools are used, then precise positioning can be achieved, but a considerable amount of time and manual effort is required for replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The tool requirement is extracted and eliminated from the connection process. The connection element is designed to be operable without tools, removing the need for screwdrivers, wrenches, or other manual tools while maintaining the precise positioning function through the contour engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is designed to be self-aligning through the form-fit contours, which automatically guide the stand plate into the correct position during attachment, eliminating the need for manual positioning adjustments or tool-assisted alignment procedures.
3Speed
If click connections are used for quick change, then exchange speed is improved, but the connection has play and positioning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element features asymmetric contours with specific geometric shapes that engage in a non-symmetric manner, creating a form-fit connection that eliminates play. The contours are designed with complementary shapes that mate precisely in one orientation, preventing movement and ensuring stable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a conventional click connection that relies on elastic deformation and friction, the invention inverts the approach by using rigid form-fit contours that engage through geometric complementarity, achieving both quick connection and play-free positioning simultaneously.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2d
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
System (100) comprising a base plate (110) and a support (120) for the base plate, wherein the base plate comprises a base side (170) for receiving a container (130), and wherein the base plate (110) comprises a first connecting surface (111) opposite the base side and the support (120) comprises a second connecting surface (121) which can be brought into contact with each other, characterized in that the first connecting surface and the second connecting surface comprise corresponding contours (112, 113, 122, 123) which can be engaged with each other to form a positive-locking and backlash-free connection of the base plate and the support.